Sally Otis Thorndike (Mrs. Israel Thorndike, Jr.) - Gilbert Stuart

A portrait of Sally Otis Thorndike (Mrs. Israel Thorndike, Jr.) by Gilbert Stuart, the painting features soft light and delicate brushwork, capturing the warmth and humanity of the sitter.

This portrait by Gilbert Stuart depicts Sally Otis Thorndike (1793-1819), wife of Israel Thorndike Jr. Stuart, an American painter, is considered one of the country's foremost portrait artists. He is best known for his iconic, unfinished portrait of George Washington, which has appeared on United States currency for over a century. In this work, Sally Otis Thorndike is shown seated in a green upholstered chair, her hands resting in her lap. She wears a red dress with white trim and a low neckline. Her hair is styled in tight curls around her face. Behind her, a draped curtain reveals a glimpse of a cloudy sky. The composition is typical of Stuart's portrait style, which often featured a focus on the sitter's face and a simple, elegant background. The painting is characterised by its soft, diffused light and delicate brushwork, which gives the subject a sense of warmth and humanity. Stuart's skill in capturing the likeness and character of his sitters made him a popular choice among the wealthy and influential families of his time.